"to be strong" ... ser vs. estar

Question

How do you say "I have to be strong"? Do you use "ser" or "estar". Because I'm not sure if it's a permanent trait or a temporary state.

What's the context? That will help you decide which one it is. - t1funnyface, Apr 23, 2012

something like this: you say to yourself that you're not strong enough to do something...but then you say you have to be strong because of something/someone - Cachulquin, Apr 23, 2012

Now think: Is it something that you need right now (temporary) or something that you need in the future/forever (permanently)? If that makes any sense. That's how I usually decide - by simplifying the sentence or saying it a different way. - t1funnyface, Apr 23, 2012

I would say it's more temporary...so I guess there should be "estar", right? - Cachulquin, Apr 23, 2012

Answer 1

Depends on context. "Ser fuerte" and "estar fuerte" are both correct, but they don't mean the same.

"Tengo que ser fuerte para defender mis convicciones"

"Tengo que estar fuerte para poder soportar varios dias sin comer."

Answer 2

"Tengo que ser fuerte" is my guess, but I don't know about an emotional state.